Traveling with your Pet

Before you goAsk yourself: will my cat be comfortable and happy on this trip? Some animals simply prefer to stay at home and a "homesick", possibly motion-sick pet will ruin everyone’s trip. In such a case it’s probably wiser to leave your pet with a friend, relative or hire a "petsitter". If that is not possible, you might consider boarding him or her at a clean, well-run cattery.

Plan aheadIf you do decide to take your pet along, you must take as much care with the preparation of your pet’s trip as your own. If you plan to travel by plane, bus, train or boat, find out if your pet will be welcome and, what kind of reservations and transport arrangements must be made. If you’ll be staying at hotels, motels or campgrounds, you must check if animals are allowed or if kennel facilities are available. If you’re staying with friends or family, make sure your pet is also invited.

Traveling by plane

Contact the airline you wish to fly well in advance? – each has its own regulations and reservations for your pet will be necessary.

Be sure to ask about the airline’s rules for pet crates or carriers.

Try to book a direct flight or one with a minimum of stops.

The airline may allow your pet in the passenger cabin if your crate or carrier can fit under the seat in front of you. If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, be at the airport early, place him in his travel crate yourself and pick him up promptly when you land.

Establish that your pet will be in a pressurized area of the plane – cargo holds can get very hot or very cold without environmental controls.

Traveling by car

If your pet is not used to being in a car, take him or her for a few short rides before your trip. Your cat will probably be safer and more comfortable in a carrier.

Give the main meal at the end of the day. Dry food is more convenient but if your pet needs canned food, dispose of any unused portions if they cannot be refrigerated.

It is not recommended to leave your cat in a parked car for a prolonged period of time. If you must leave your pet in a parked car, put the cat in the carrier, lock all doors and open windows enough to provide good ventilation. Remember, on hot days, the temperature in a parked car can rise to dangerous levels in just minutes and your pet could die of heat stroke.

Traveling by bus, train or boat

Not all bus lines allow you to travel with your pet, so phone ahead for information.

Amtrak does not permit pets to travel in passenger cars, but they may travel in cages as checked luggage.

Some cruise ships do welcome pets. Check with the cruise line or ask your travel agent.

Wherever you go

Ensure your pet ALWAYS wears a collar with complete identification and a license tag. Microchipping with HomeAgain® is the way to ensure you will retrieve your animal should it be lost.

Pack his or her favorite food, toys and dishes, a cooler of water, a litter box and a leash.

Have your pet examined and vaccinated, if necessary, by your veterinarian before a long trip.

If your pet must travel in a crate or carrier, be sure it is strong, large enough for him or her to stand up and turn around, has a place for food and water, and a litter box, is well ventilated, has a leak-proof bottom and closes securely.

Contact the consulate or embassy of your destination or ask your travel agent for advice if you are planning a trip abroad with your pet, as health and vaccination regulations vary greatly.